Mr. John Hammond:

Returning to the point about the points system and allocation of points for particular subjects, it is, in the first place, a matter for the third level institutions which operate the points system. In real terms, something of we have to be cognisant when looking at the question of allocating points for particular subject is how we distinguish between the worth of one subject and another. The difficulty in embarking on the path towards awarding additional points for specific subjects is that one will end up with a competition between subjects, as to which of them should and should not attract additional points. One will also runs into the difficulties that were recently encountered in the case of mathematics with unintended consequences in the allocation of points for a specific subject. In general, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, has been cautious when looking at the question of awarding additional points for specific subjects. We tend to be more inclined towards and supportive of the allocation of additional points for congruent or related courses available at third level. There is certainly a case for looking at the allocation of additional points for the arts and other subjects. Generally, the points system has to operate on an equitable basis across subjects as much as possible.